Staunton, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Beverley Street Studio School in Staunton will close on December 12, 2025, due to ongoing financial difficulties. Established in 1992, the school has faced declining enrollment and funding challenges, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. A farewell celebration and silent auction will take place on November 11, 2025, to honor the school’s legacy. Although the school will cease operations, its gallery will remain open until February 2026, and other local art education options will be available for the community.
Staunton – Beverley Street Studio School (BSSS), a renowned arts institution that has served the community for over 33 years, will officially close its doors on December 12, 2025, due to ongoing financial difficulties. Founded in 1992 by a group of five artists, BSSS has struggled with various challenges, including rising operational costs and a declining volunteer base. The decision to close was made after much deliberation by the board, which emphasized the importance of preserving the school’s legacy while recognizing the realities of its financial situation.
In recent years, BSSS has seen a significant decline in profitability, having not been financially viable for the past decade. Decreased funding and increased competition within the area contributed to the decision to close, along with a dramatic 40 percent drop in enrollment triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. In its early years, BSSS thrived with a robust volunteer force, but this support dwindled notably during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
BSSS was established to provide non-degree, studio-based art education and quickly became a vital resource for individuals seeking serious art instruction beyond traditional academic settings. The school transitioned into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2002, emphasizing its commitment to the arts as a community-focused initiative. Over its operational years, BSSS offered participants a variety of classes and workshops, fostering a creative environment for artists at various skill levels.
Throughout its history, BSSS operated from multiple locations before settling at 217 W. Beverley Street, where it became a local hub for arts education. As part of the farewell to the community, BSSS will host a goodbye celebration and silent auction on November 11, 2025. This event will showcase artwork produced by students, offering community members a chance to commemorate their experiences at the school.
Although the school will close, the BSSS Gallery will remain open until February 2026, allowing visitors to enjoy exhibitions and artwork created throughout the school’s history. Following the closure, BSSS, as a nonprofit organization, will need to distribute its financial assets to other nonprofits, a decision that will be made in 2026.
After BSSS ceases operations, local art enthusiasts can still find educational offerings and art-related programs at the Staunton Augusta Art Center, Shenandoah Valley Art Center, and McGuffey Art Center, ensuring that opportunities for artistic growth continue in the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Beverley Street Studio School closing?
Beverley Street Studio School is closing due to ongoing financial struggles, including rising operational costs, decreased funding, and a significant drop in enrollment, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
When will the school close?
The school will officially close on December 12, 2025.
Will there be an opportunity to celebrate the school’s legacy?
Yes, there will be a farewell celebration and silent auction on November 11, 2025, featuring student artwork and an opportunity for community members to pay tribute to the school.
What will happen to the remaining financial assets of BSSS?
As a nonprofit organization, BSSS is required to disperse its financial assets to other nonprofits, with decisions on this expected to be made in 2026.
Are there alternative art education options available after the closure?
Yes, after BSSS closes, local art enthusiasts can explore educational offerings at the Staunton Augusta Art Center, Shenandoah Valley Art Center, and McGuffey Art Center.
Key Features of Beverley Street Studio School
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Year | 1992 |
| Closure Date | December 12, 2025 |
| Founding Artists | Frank Hobbs, Ron Boehmer, Rosalee Day White, Daniel Dempsey, Ryan Russel |
| Focus | Non-degree, studio-based art instruction |
| Nonprofit Status | Achieved in 2002 |
| Decline in Enrollment | 40% due to COVID-19 |
| Final Celebration Date | November 11, 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- WHSV: Beverley Street Studio School Announces Upcoming Closure
- Wikipedia: Art Education
- News Leader: Staunton’s Beverley Street Studio School Closes
- Google Search: Beverley Street Studio School closure
- Augusta Free Press: Staunton Beverley Street Studio School to End Classes & Workshops in December
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nonprofit organization
- Rocktown Now: Beverley Street Studio School in Staunton Closing in December
- Google News: Staunton art education
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